Lead alert: FDA issues warning about these imported products that could leach lead

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has expanded its warning over imported cookware that could leach dangerous levels of lead into food. Six new products–sold in supermarkets and specialty shops across several U.S. states–were added to the FDA’s alert in mid-October, bringing the total to more than a dozen.

What’s behind the new FDA cookware warning?

The agency says tests conducted on certain aluminum, brass, and alloy cookware – particularly those labeled as Hindalium, Hindolium, Indalium, or Indolium – show they can release significant amounts of lead when used for cooking or storing food. Lead is toxic and can build up in the body over time, causing serious and sometimes irreversible health effects.

The new additions include cookware sold by small retailers in California, Illinois, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. The FDA urges consumers to stop using any of the products listed and to discard them immediately rather than donating or refurbishing them. Retailers are being told to pull these items from shelves and contact the agency about testing or regulatory questions.

Cookware added to the FDA alert on October 15, 2025

• Kadai/Karahi Aluminum Hammered Kadai Size 7 – sold at Indian Supermarket, Sacramento, CA; distributed by Indian Cookware & Appliance LLC (San Jose, CA).
• Brass Pot – sold by Santos Agency Inc., San Leandro, CA.
• Dolphin Brand Aluminum Saucepan – sold by Diya Handicrafts, Chicago, IL.
• 2 qt and 3 qt Aluminum Saucepans (Town Food Service Equipment Co., Inc., Made in Pakistan) – sold by Best Kitchen Supply, Washington, D.C.; distributed by Win Chong Trading Corp, Brooklyn, NY.
• Royal Kitchen Cookware Milk Pan (size 3) – sold by Subzi Bazaar, Rochelle Park, NJ; distributed by New Reliance Traders, Inc., Maspeth, NY.

These join previously flagged items such as Tiger White, Silver Horse, and JK Vallabhdas cookware brands, which were added in September and have already been subject to recalls or distributor notifications.

Why is lead in cookware a serious concern?

Lead exposure can harm people of any age, but young children and pregnant women are particularly at risk. Even low levels of lead can affect brain development, IQ, and behavior in children. Higher levels may lead to fatigue, headaches, stomach pain, and neurological problems.

“There’s no safe level of lead exposure,” the FDA notes, adding that food cooked or stored in these pots could contribute to elevated blood lead levels.

What should I do if worried?

The FDA continues testing cookware imported from several countries and says its surveillance program remains ongoing. More products could be added to the warning list in the coming weeks.

Consumers concerned about possible lead exposure should contact their healthcare provider. Retailers are encouraged to reach out to FDA for guidance on lead leach testing protocols or product safety questions via premarkt@fda.hhs.gov.

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